Carl Nielbock is a metalsmithing wizard. As detailed in this Model D article about metro Detroit's inventors, he has big visions for his creations.

"[His windmills] are built with reused 'upcycled' parts and able to operate in low-wind conditions; he sees them being applied towards stormwater mitigation, urban farming applications, and electricity generation. He hopes to one day use them to establish wind-energy farms on vacant land, which could help create tax revenue to maintain local schools, roads, and other infrastructure."

With a little fundraising, Nielbock might be able to bring about some of these ideas.

His organization, C.A.N. Art Handworks, is looking to raise $25,000 in matching grants as part of a partnership with the Eastern Market Corporation. The other $25,000 would be provided by the Knight Foundation.

According to the press release, the project will...

Create groundbreaking new windmills that generate energy for a device charging station and reuse stormwater to irrigate crops at Detroit's Eastern Market

Create functional public art that helps visitors to the Eastern Market visualize the potential of upcycling and green energy production in Detroit

Engage Detroiters, students, urban gardeners, and others in the fabrication and installation processes and inspire them to further innovate the windmills

Be a step towards our bigger vision of generating green energy in Detroit on a large scale using materials and people already within the city to design, build and innovate green energy technology

Nielbock hopes to install the windmills by summer 2018. Find out more information about the project here.

A campaign kickoff event takes place on Saturday, Jan. 13th from 10:30 a.m. to noon AND 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at CAN Art Handworks at 2264 Wilkins St. You can donate to the campaign when it goes live here.